Alpha Omicron Pi was founded on January 2, 1897 at Barnard College of Columbia University in New York City by four extraordinary women: Jessie Wallace Hughan, Elizabeth Heywood Wyman, Stella George Stern Perry, and Helen St. Clair Mullan.

The object of this fraternity shall be to encourage a spirit of fraternity and love among its members; to stand at all times for character, dignity, scholarship, and college loyalty; to strive for and support the best interests of the colleges and universities in which chapters are installed; and in no way to disregard, injure or sacrifice those interests for the sake of prestige or advancement of the fraternity or any of its chapters.

AOII Symbols:

*The Badge: The badge of Alpha Omicron Pi is composed of the three initial letters of the three words of the Motto, superimposed one upon the next in order, which gives the Fraternity its name. Only Initiated members may wear badges. Lending or giving the badge to any person not a member of the Fraternity is prohibited. If it is worn with another pin, it is to be placed above it and to the right.

*The Color: Alpha Omicron Pi has only one color, cardinal. It is the color of the Fraternity flower, the ruby and the ribbon sometimes worn under the badge to welcome a new collegiate chapter.

*The Jewel: Alpha Omicron Pi has only one jewel, the ruby. The occasional use of pearls or diamonds in special badges has no significance or special meaning.

*Flower. The Jacque Minot, a deep red rose, was chosen as the flower of Alpha Omicron Pi because its color is the symbol of the central and essential virtue of the Fraternity. This strong red rose, with its overtones of courage and vigor, was selected for its richness of color and fragrance, combines with softness and modesty of bearing.